Director of Media and Public Relations

Alliance Defending Freedom • Washington, DC

83d • $104,974 - $136,466

About The Position

As the Director of Media and Public Relations, you will shape and protect ADF’s public voice. Reporting to the Vice President of Communications and Public Relations (PR), you will lead ADF’s media strategy, oversee the multi-media news division, manage rapid response and crisis communications, and ensure ADF’s messaging is strategic, consistent, and impactful. This role is both strategic and hands-on, requiring a leader who can build influential media relationships, craft compelling narratives from complex legal issues, respond quickly to emerging conversations, and position ADF as a trusted and leading voice on the most urgent cultural and legal topics of the day.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in communications, journalism, public relations, or a related field.
• 8+ years of experience in media relations, public affairs, or strategic communications.
• 3+ years of experience leading a communications or media team.
• Experience in crisis response, executive messaging, and high-profile media engagement.
• Demonstrated success designing and executing impactful media and PR strategies that shape public opinion and advance organizational objectives.
• Exceptional ability to distill complex legal and policy issues into clear, compelling messages for diverse audiences.
• Proven track record of building strong relationships with national and international media outlets and securing high-impact coverage.
• Experienced in defining KPIs, analyzing performance data, and adapting strategies to maximize impact.
• Deep understanding of emerging media platforms, content optimization, and audience engagement strategies.

Responsibilities

• Develop and lead a comprehensive media and public relations strategy that advances ADF’s mission, strengthens its brand, and supports legal advocacy objectives.
• Translate complex legal concepts into compelling, accessible messaging for diverse audiences, ensuring consistent alignment across earned, owned, and paid media platforms.
• Oversee cross-channel communications and message development for internal, external, and alliance audiences, while positioning ADF and its leaders as influential voices in national conversations on freedom and advocacy.
• Build and maintain high-impact relationships with top-tier media, journalists, influencers, and opinion leaders to maximize visibility and coverage.
• Lead ADF’s rapid response efforts by identifying and acting quickly on breaking news, cultural moments, and emerging trends.
• Oversee the creation of proactive media strategies and events to amplify ADF’s profile, showcase cases, and shape public conversations.
• Foster surrogate commentary and third-party advocacy by cultivating a strong network of aligned voices to amplify ADF messaging.
• Serve as the organization’s first line of defense during crises, leading swift, strategic communications responses that protect ADF’s reputation.
• Anticipate potential risks, develop crisis playbooks, and train staff and leadership on effective public response.
• Coordinate with legal teams to ensure all external communications are accurate, compliant, and aligned with legal and ethical standards.
• Direct the creation of high-impact media content designed to reach and engage target audiences, including articles, commentaries, interviews, videos, podcasts, and web content.
• Explore and adopt new communication channels, platforms, and technologies to expand reach and enhance engagement.
• Ensure all communications are optimized for digital distribution and search discoverability.
• Oversee training, preparation, and deployment of attorneys, spokespeople, and staff for media appearances and public speaking opportunities.
• Define KPIs, track results, and report on media performance, audience reach, and message effectiveness.
• Use data and insights to inform strategy, optimize campaigns, and ensure agility in responding to opportunities.
• Manage budgets for media initiatives, ensuring resources are used effectively and aligned with strategic priorities.

Benefits

• 100% covered medical and dental insurance
• Medical and dependent care reimbursement
• Paid disability
• Long-term care
• Life insurance
• 401(k) plan with a 4% company match
• Paid time off
• 12 paid holidays each year

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Education Level: Bachelor's degree